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What we’re reading: Tim Noakes, The Real Meal Revolution

For most people, the notion of eating fat to lose weight is completely foreign – and let’s face it, hard to believe. How does it work, and how does it contribute to weight loss? Tim Noakes’ new book, The Real Meal Revolution, answers these questions and more.

So, is this a diet?

No, it’s not a diet, but rather a new lifestyle and eating behaviour that you adopt for life. For those who are carbohydrate resistant (intolerant), it’s important to note that carb resistance won’t normalise no matter how much weight is lost or exercise is done, which is what makes this particular eating plan a life-long commitment.

It’s not just about good health

Carb resistant people who commit to the eating plan will see a change in their athletic ability. Carbohydrates are relatively ineffective fuels for those with carbohydrate resistance, so there’s no risk that your exercise performance will be effected. In fact, the less carbohydrates consumed (both in training and in racing), the better a person is likely to perform. Tim is able to walk for 6 hours on the mountain and race up to 21km without needing any more than 50-75 grams of carbohydrates a day.

Do I need to drop all carbs?

Carbohydrates aren’t all good or all bad. Some carbs promote health, while others, when eaten in large quantities, can increase your risk for diabetes and heart disease.

That being said, there’s a big difference between the types of carbs you eat. Unhealthy carbs include heavily processed chips, white bread and pasta. Healthy carbs include whole fruits and whole-wheat bread, which digest slowly and keep you fuller for longer.

More about the “Real Meal Revolution”

A scientist, a nutritionist, and two chef-athletes are the crack squad behind Real Meal Revolution. Written by Tim Noakes, Sally Ann Creed, Jonno Proudfoot and David Grier, the book’s revelatory stance is the result of their personal experiences combined with scientific evidence to back it all up.

Real Meal Revolution is divided into 3 sections: an overview of the health plan, delicious and practical recipes, and the history and science behind human nutritional evolution. Through the book, the authors aim to literally change your life by teaching you how to take charge of your health, your weight and the way you eat.

Catch the full studio interview with Tim Noakes.